Lambeth (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Lambeth Council invites residents to help shape plans for a new Healthy Neighbourhood in the Kennington Triangle, aiming to improve local air and safety.
The goal of the proposed plan is to make this part of the borough’s north a safer, greener, and friendlier place. The suggested modifications are a part of the council’s larger goal to create neighborhoods around Lambeth that are healthier, cleaner, and more welcoming.
The Lambeth Kennington Triangle scheme’s proposed design is currently out for public comment, and it will remain available until July 7, 2025.
There is now a lot of cut-through traffic and road risk in the Kennington Triangle. On some roadways, such as Chester Way, Renfrew Road, and Brook Drive, almost 75% of the cars are actually only passing through.
Despite this, there are good public transportation connections in the neighborhood, and more than two-thirds of households do not own a car.
When individuals find it quicker, safer, and more enjoyable to walk, for example to the store or school, we have observed that motor traffic levels frequently drop by more than 50%, speeding drops by up to 75%, and collisions drop by up to 70%.
The plan will be initially implemented on a trial basis if it is approved. Possible new features include:
Actions to lessen speeding and eliminate through traffic
More secure paths for bicycling, walking, scootering, and wheeling
Parklets for play, relaxation, and sitting
Parking for bicycles and new green infrastructure
The suggested design is based on statistics on air quality and traffic flow, as well as input from previous engagement sessions with local organizations and citizens.
Cllr Rezina Chowdhury, Deputy Leader of Lambeth Council, said:
“We are committed to making our streets cleaner, less dangerous and more liveable. The Kennington Triangle Healthy Neighbourhood will help create a place where people can walk and cycle safely, enjoy public spaces and breathe cleaner air.
Typically, with these schemes, we have seen a reduction in motor traffic on both the internal and adjacent main roads as people find it easier, safer and more pleasant to walk to the shops or school.”
Residents have until July 7, 2025, to finish the online survey and examine comprehensive maps of the planned modifications. The final design and trial phase decision-making will be influenced by feedback.
How will residents’ feedback influence the final plans for Kennington’s Healthy Neighbourhood?
Which streets see changes, how severe these limits are, and how access is controlled for locals and key users will all depend on feedback on planned traffic calming measures and vehicle restrictions.
The location of traffic filters, crossings, and other safety elements will be determined by the residents’ concerns over road danger and the protection of cyclists and pedestrians.
The development of hospitable, kid-friendly, and climate-resilient places will be influenced by suggestions for additional vegetation, seating, play areas, and general street aesthetics.
All users, especially those with mobility issues or disabilities, will be accommodated in the design due to input from a broad community, including vulnerable groups.